Mathews Maritime Museum

The Museum | Collections & Lending Library

The Mathews Maritime Museum, owned and operated by the Mathews Maritime Foundation, houses artifacts, documents, and photographs depicting the history and legacy of Mathews County, the Middle Peninsula of Virginia, and the Chesapeake Bay. Located in downtown Mathews, 482 Main St., we welcome you! Doors are open from 10am-2pm, Fri. and Sat., from April to November, and also by appointment.Directions & contact info.

On Exhibit Now | WWII

Russian uniform, with hat, on loan by H. Rockefeller

Our current WWII exhibit coincides with the museum's recently released 18-month calendar, "Remembering WWII." While the exhibit honors the veterans and Merchant Marines of Mathews County, it also includes extras like German and Russian uniforms, hats, and helmets, a Japanese battle flag, plane-identifying flashcards, Bedford Boys memorabilia, medals, and Coast Guard items.

Russian caps, on loan by H. Rockefeller

Beverly Gayle, at right, stands beside a photo of her father, Capt. Robert Billups Gayle. The exhibit includes many local stories.

Sea-bee helmet - the civil engineering corps of the U.S. Navy, on loan by Jack White

German uniform/jacket & trousers, with cap, on loan by H. Rockefeller

Don't miss this exciting exhibit! Volunteers are available to guide you through the museum on Fridays and Saturdays, from 10am-2pm. Or call (804)725-4444 to set up a visit by appointment.

What's Ahead?

Our enthusiasm for preserving history is always growing, and so is our collection! Help us continue to restore historic boats, fund programs like family boatbuilding, and preserve relics that represent maritime in Mathews.

Going forward, we hope to move the museum out of it’s current public facility and into a new home for artifacts, research media, and educational activities.

Recording Oral History

The Oral History Program documents local stories and memories of how things used to be, so that these valuable accounts will not be lost to future generations. Tell your story. Contact our musuem at (804) 725-4444.